Kaʻena Point State Park

Ancient Hawaiians believed their souls would leap into the spirit world from this lava shoreline on the western tip of Oahu. These days, people jump off here in gliders instead, soaking up views of the Waiʻanae coast to the south, Mokuleʻia to the north—and the glorious, denim-blue Pacific stretching from here to eternity. Take a 5.4-mile round-trip hike and check out the albatross sanctuary on Kaʻena's wild coastal acreage (free to visit). Keep an eye out for monk seals, one of the world's most endangered species, found only in Hawaii. Watch for their silvery-gray sausage shapes as they lounge on the beach, but give them space. Always retreat if a seal awakes, vocalizes, shies away, or tries to shield a pup.

The leeward side of Oahu does not get many tourists, but several trails are worth exploring. Kaena Point is the northwestern most corner of Oahu. There are two ways to access it. The first is by driving up the leeward side of the island to Kaena Point State Park. Following the coast to the north will lead hikers directly to this corner of Oahu and the bird sanctuary there. The second way is by driving from the north shore. Travelers drive as far as they can along the access road in Mokuleia State Park and then walk west along the coast until reaching the point. The hike is beautiful, and visitors may see whales breach if they are migrating. Pack water and some snacks. The hike can be hot and there are no facilities along the trail.

Hike north on the scenic unpaved portion of the Old Farrington Highway for a lovely view and an isolated beach. Follow the trail through Ka'ena Point State Park and Natural Area Reserve until you reach the far north west point of the island. The beautiful beach is covered with coral and volcanic rock, and the cool shallow pools will have you lounging like the seals. Be respectful of the wildlife, and make sure to take lots of water and a picnic!

Kaena Point, on the western tip of Oahu, is a sacred lava shoreline said to be where the souls of ancient Hawaiians would jump off into the spirit world. These days, people jump off here in powered gliders—or soar over in aerodynamically streamlined sailplanes, thanks to favorable prevailing winds. Up with the gods, you'll see the Waianae coast to the south, Mokuleia to the north—and the glorious denim-blue Pacific stretching from here to eternity.